A late-night emergency alert claiming that four people had been murdered near Kudlu Gate prompted a swift police response, only for officers to discover that the shocking report was completely false.
According to a complaint filed by Assistant Sub-Inspector M Venkatesh, he was on Hoysala night patrol duty along with driver Deepu R when they received information from the police control room at around 9.33 pm on Tuesday.
The caller, identified as Umesh, allegedly informed authorities that four murders had taken place near Kudlu Gate, prompting police teams to rush to the location.
Police find no evidence of crime
Upon reaching the area, officers carried out a thorough search but found no signs of any murder or criminal activity. Police later contacted the caller and sought further details about the alleged incident.
However, officials said the man failed to provide any specific information and allegedly responded irresponsibly when questioned.
To verify the claim, personnel from Bandepalya Police Station also visited the locality and questioned residents, shopkeepers and passers-by. Their inquiries revealed no evidence whatsoever to support the allegation.
Caller identified as habitual prankster
Following the investigation, police concluded that the information provided to the control room was false and intentionally misleading.
A case has been registered under Section 217 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with furnishing false information with the intention of causing a public servant to misuse lawful powers.
Investigators later identified the suspect as a resident of Bantwal in Dakshina Kannada district who works as a labourer. Police said he had travelled to Bengaluru to visit a cousin residing near Kudlu Gate.
Officials further revealed that the accused is a habitual hoax caller with a history of making false reports to authorities.
Efforts are currently underway to trace and apprehend him. Police have reiterated that false emergency calls divert valuable resources and can delay responses to genuine emergencies.